US20180163935A1 - Combined Flashlight and Lantern - Google Patents

Combined Flashlight and Lantern Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20180163935A1
US20180163935A1 US15/467,408 US201715467408A US2018163935A1 US 20180163935 A1 US20180163935 A1 US 20180163935A1 US 201715467408 A US201715467408 A US 201715467408A US 2018163935 A1 US2018163935 A1 US 2018163935A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
handle
head
light
column
flashlight
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US15/467,408
Inventor
Douglas Fowkes
Arianne Rose Nuevo Pasagui
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Hydra Light International Pty Ltd
INFOMERCIALS Inc
Original Assignee
Hydra Light International Pty Ltd
INFOMERCIALS Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Hydra Light International Pty Ltd, INFOMERCIALS Inc filed Critical Hydra Light International Pty Ltd
Priority to US15/467,408 priority Critical patent/US20180163935A1/en
Assigned to Hydra Light International Pty. Ltd., INFOMERCIALS, INC. reassignment Hydra Light International Pty. Ltd. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PASAGUI, ARIANNE ROSE NUEVO, FOWKES, DOUGLAS
Priority to US15/720,645 priority patent/US9927077B1/en
Priority to CN201721445605.7U priority patent/CN207527337U/en
Publication of US20180163935A1 publication Critical patent/US20180163935A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21LLIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
    • F21L4/00Electric lighting devices with self-contained electric batteries or cells
    • F21L4/04Electric lighting devices with self-contained electric batteries or cells characterised by the provision of a light source housing portion adjustably fixed to the remainder of the device
    • F21L4/045Pocket lamps
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21LLIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
    • F21L13/00Electric lighting devices with built-in electric generators
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V14/00Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements
    • F21V14/04Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements by movement of reflectors
    • F21V14/045Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements by movement of reflectors in portable lighting devices
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V17/00Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages
    • F21V17/02Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages with provision for adjustment
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V23/00Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
    • F21V23/04Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
    • F21V23/0414Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches specially adapted to be used with portable lighting devices
    • F21V23/0428Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches specially adapted to be used with portable lighting devices the switch being part of, or disposed on the lamp head portion thereof
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V3/00Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V31/00Gas-tight or water-tight arrangements
    • F21V31/005Sealing arrangements therefor
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V5/00Refractors for light sources
    • F21V5/04Refractors for light sources of lens shape
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V7/00Reflectors for light sources
    • F21V7/04Optical design
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V7/00Reflectors for light sources
    • F21V7/04Optical design
    • F21V7/041Optical design with conical or pyramidal surface
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01MPROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M12/00Hybrid cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M12/04Hybrid cells; Manufacture thereof composed of a half-cell of the fuel-cell type and of a half-cell of the primary-cell type
    • H01M12/06Hybrid cells; Manufacture thereof composed of a half-cell of the fuel-cell type and of a half-cell of the primary-cell type with one metallic and one gaseous electrode
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01MPROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M6/00Primary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M6/30Deferred-action cells
    • H01M6/32Deferred-action cells activated through external addition of electrolyte or of electrolyte components
    • H01M6/34Immersion cells, e.g. sea-water cells
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V13/00Producing particular characteristics or distribution of the light emitted by means of a combination of elements specified in two or more of main groups F21V1/00 - F21V11/00
    • F21V13/02Combinations of only two kinds of elements
    • F21V13/04Combinations of only two kinds of elements the elements being reflectors and refractors
    • F21V13/045Combinations of only two kinds of elements the elements being reflectors and refractors for portable lighting devices
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V3/00Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses
    • F21V3/02Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses characterised by the shape
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2115/00Light-generating elements of semiconductor light sources
    • F21Y2115/10Light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01MPROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M2220/00Batteries for particular applications
    • H01M2220/30Batteries in portable systems, e.g. mobile phone, laptop
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02EREDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/10Energy storage using batteries

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to a combined flashlight and lantern that can be powered by a metal-air fuel cell (MAFC) that is activated by water or an electrolyte solution, such as salt water.
  • MAFC metal-air fuel cell
  • Flashlights usually require batteries that can expire or lose power during storage.
  • flashlights can be difficult to use in some situations, like hands-free or tabletop configurations.
  • Lanterns can been designed for hands-free or tabletop use, but cannot project beams of light.
  • the invention provides a combined flashlight and lantern device comprising a body with a head and a shank.
  • a column extends from the shank.
  • a proximal convex reflector is disposed on a distal end of the column.
  • a light is disposed on the distal end of the column adjacent the proximal convex reflector.
  • a dimple is formed in the proximal convex reflector and aligned with the light.
  • the head is slidable on the column.
  • the head comprises a sleeve having proximal and distal ends, and a lateral wall with at least a portion that is transparent or translucent defining a lateral lantern lens.
  • a proximal opening is at the proximal end of the sleeve and slidable receives the column therein.
  • a flashlight lens is disposed at a distal end of the sleeve opposite the proximal opening.
  • a distal convex reflector is carried by the sleeve, and opposes the proximal convex reflector of the column, and has an aperture therein aligned with the light. The proximal and distal convex reflectors move towards and away from one another as the head slides on the column.
  • a distal concave reflector is carried by the sleeve and has an aperture therein aligned with the aperture of the distal convex reflector of the sleeve.
  • a conical projection extends from the distal convex reflector and has the aperture aligned with the light. The conical projection is receivable in the dimple with the light adjacent the aperture when the head is slid towards the handle.
  • the head slides between at least two positions, comprising: a retracted position, defining a flashlight configuration; and an extended position, defining a lantern configuration.
  • a retracted position defining a flashlight configuration
  • an extended position defining a lantern configuration.
  • the sleeve In the retracted position, and the flashlight configuration, the sleeve is displaced towards the shank, the distal convex reflector of the sleeve is adjacent the proximal convex reflector of the column, and the light is received adjacent the aperture of the distal concave reflector to disperse light reflected off of the distal concave reflector of the sleeve and out of the flashlight lens.
  • the sleeve In the extended position, and the lantern configuration, the sleeve is displaced away from the shank, the distal and proximal convex reflectors are separated from one another by a gap, and the light is disperse off of the distal and proximal convex reflectors and out of the lateral lantern lens.
  • the proximal convex reflector or the conical projection, or both can be opaque and configured to resist light from the light passing laterally therethrough.
  • the shank defines a handle and can be longer than the column, and can be wider than the column.
  • the proximal convex reflector and the conical projection can be specular reflectors.
  • the handle can have a hollow and an open end.
  • a metal-air fuel cell can be electrically coupled to the light, and removably disposed in the hollow of the handle.
  • a first aperture can be formed at one end of the handle and a second aperture can be formed at an opposite end of the handle to expose the fuel cell to ambient air and vent reaction by-product gases of the metal-air fuel cell when activated.
  • annular slide can be carried by the sleeve of the head and disposed around and slidable along the column.
  • the annular slide can have an annular channel receiving the proximal opening of the head.
  • An annular seal can extend from an inner surface of the annular slide, and can abut to the column and can slide along the column as the head slides on the column.
  • a pair of annular grooves can be formed in the column and spaced-apart from one another. The pair of annular grooves can removably receive the annular seal therein.
  • the pair of annular grooves can comprise a proximal groove corresponding to the retracted position of the head with respect to the handle, and a distal groove corresponding to the extended position of the head with respect to the handle.
  • the annular seal defines a detent biasing the head in the retracted and extended positions.
  • an axial rib can be slidable in an axial groove disposed between the column and the head to resist the head and the shank rotating with respect to one another.
  • FIG. 1 a is a side view of a combined flashlight and lantern in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, shown in a flashlight configuration and with a head in a retracted position;
  • FIG. 1 b is a side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown in a lantern configuration and with the head in an extended position;
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of a shank of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown with the head removed;
  • FIG. 3 is a side view of the head of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown removed from the shank;
  • FIG. 4 a is a cross-sectional side view of combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown in the flashlight configuration and with the head in the retracted position;
  • FIG. 4 b is a cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown in the lantern configuration and with the head in the extended position;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a shank of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown with the head removed;
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side view of the head of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown removed from the shank;
  • FIG. 7 a is a partial detailed cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown the flashlight configuration and with the head in the retracted position;
  • FIG. 7 b is a partial detailed cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown the lantern configuration and with the head in the extended position;
  • FIG. 7 c is a partial detailed cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown transitioning between the flashlight and lantern configuration;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown with a cap and a metal-air fuel cell housing removed from the shank;
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the cap of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the metal-air fuel cell housing of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 , shown with the metal-air fuel cell removed;
  • FIG. 12 is a side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 13 is a top view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of another cap for another combined flashlight and lantern in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • lens is used herein broadly to refer to a window through which light is passed.
  • the lens may or may not have optical power and may or may not have curved surfaces.
  • the lens can be transparent or translucent.
  • a combined flashlight and lantern indicated generally at 10 , in an example implementation in accordance with the invention is shown.
  • the combined flashlight and lantern can be called a “flantern.”
  • the flantern can be configured to “run” (not powered) on water, or an electrolyte solution, such as salt water.
  • the flantern can be configured to utilize a metal-air fuel cell (MAFC) 14 ( FIGS. 8 and 10 ) as a power source.
  • the MAFC 14 can be activated by adding water to the MAFC, e.g. by substantially immersing the MAFC in water.
  • the MAFC 14 is configured to provide power to the flantern 10 , and light thereof, when water is introduced into the MAFC.
  • the MAFC 14 can be reusable, and can be re-immersed in water and re-activated multiple times. In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can be configured to provide 100 continuous hours of power to the light (so that the light provides 100 hours of continuous light), and can be re-immersed and re-activated at least three times, each for an addition 100 continuous hours of use. In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can be disposable and replaceable (or replaced by another MAFC). In another aspect, the MAFC 14 can be self-contained, and only require the addition of water, when the MAFC comprises salt impregnated therein. In another aspect, the MAFC 14 can be configured to require the addition of an electrolyte solution such as salt water and/or the further addition of salt to the MAFC.
  • an electrolyte solution such as salt water and/or the further addition of salt to the MAFC.
  • the flantern 10 can be configured as a flashlight, as shown in FIGS. 1 a , 4 a and 7 a , and a lantern, as shown in FIGS. 1 b , 4 b and 7 b .
  • the flantern 10 can direct a more concentrated and/or narrower beam of light axially with respect to the flantern.
  • the flantern 10 can be held in a user's hand in the flashlight configuration.
  • the flantern 10 can direct light radially with respect to the flantern.
  • the flantern 10 can direct light in a 360 degree circle radially to a longitudinal axis of the flantern, in the lantern configuration.
  • the light emanating radially from the flantern can also do so at an incline (acute and/or obtuse) with respect to the longitudinal axis.
  • the flantern 10 can be disposed on a tabletop or the like, or suspended, in the lantern configuration.
  • the flantern 10 comprises a body 18 with a head 22 and a shank 26 .
  • the head 22 can be movable or slidable with respect to the shank 26 , as described below.
  • the shank 26 can have a column 30 extending from the shank.
  • the body 18 and the shank 26 can have a longitudinal axis 34 .
  • the shank 26 can define a handle 38 that is sized and shaped to be grasped in a user's hand.
  • the shank 26 can be longer than the column 30 , and the shank can wider than the column 30 . Thus, the column 30 can be shorter and narrower than the handle 38 .
  • the head 22 can slide on the column 30 .
  • the light 40 is electrically coupled to the MAFC 14 .
  • the body and/or the handle or the shank can have a button electrically connected between the light and the MAFC to selectively activate the light.
  • the shank 26 can be a cylinder, and can be formed by plastic with an over mold.
  • the shank 26 can have a hollow 42 and an open end 46 , as shown in FIG. 8 .
  • a cap 50 removably closes the open end 46 of the shank 26 .
  • the cap 50 can have a flat outer end forming a base upon which the flantern 10 can stand.
  • the cap 50 can have a hook cavity 54 with a hook 58 pivotally disposed therein, as shown in FIG. 14 , and from which the flantern 10 can be hung or suspended.
  • the head 22 and the cap 50 or base can be enlarged with a greater diameter than the shank 26 or the handle 38 .
  • the MAFC 14 is removably disposed in the hollow 42 of the shank 26 .
  • the cap 50 is removably coupled to the shank 26 to expose the hollow 42 therein and allow removal and insertion of the MAFC 14 .
  • the shank 26 and/or the hollow 42 can have a sealed or closed end 62 , opposite the open end 46 .
  • the sealed or closed end 62 of the hollow 42 or the shank 26 can comprise a wall and can separate the hollow 42 , and the MAFC 14 and water therein, from the light 40 and other electronics or electrical connections, such as the button. Thus, the light, electronics and button are protected from the water, salt and/or electrolyte solution of the MAFC.
  • the head 22 is slidable on the column 30 .
  • the head 22 can comprise a sleeve 66 or shroud with proximal and distal ends.
  • the head 22 and/or sleeve 66 has a lateral wall 70 between the proximal and distal ends.
  • the lateral wall 70 has at least a portion that is transparent or translucent, defining a lateral lantern lens 74 .
  • the entire lateral wall 70 can be transparent or translucent.
  • the sleeve 66 and/or wall 70 can have a convex profile. The convex profile can be enlarged or can have a greater diameter than the handle 38 , and can help a user maintain a grip on the handle or flantern.
  • the head 22 and the sleeve 66 can have a proximal opening 78 ( FIG. 6 ) at the proximal end of the sleeve that slidable receives the column 30 therein.
  • a flashlight lens 82 is disposed at the distal end of the sleeve 66 and the head 22 , opposite the proximal opening 78 .
  • the flashlight lens 82 can face axially and can span or cover a distal opening in the sleeve 66 .
  • a ring can retain the flashlight lens on the distal opening of the sleeve 66 .
  • An annular slide 86 can be disposed on the proximal end of the sleeve 66 , and can be disposed around and slidable along the column 30 .
  • the annular slide 86 can have an annular channel 90 receiving the proximal opening 78 , and/or end of the lateral wall 70 , of the sleeve 66 and the head 22 .
  • An annular seal 94 extends from an inner surface of the annular slide 86 , and abuts to the column 30 , and slides along the column as the head 22 slides on the column.
  • a pair of annular grooves, namely a proximal groove 98 and a distal groove 102 are formed in the column 30 , and are spaced-apart from one another.
  • the annular grooves 98 and 102 removably receive the annular seal 94 therein.
  • the proximal groove 98 corresponds to the retracted position of the head 22 with respect to the shank 26 and the handle 38 .
  • the distal groove 102 corresponds to the extended position of the head 22 with respect to the shank 26 and the handle 38 .
  • the annular seal 94 can define a detent biasing the head 22 in the retracted and extended positions.
  • the annular seal 94 can be formed of a softer, pliable, and resilient material.
  • the inner surface of the annular seal 94 can form a slide or bearing surface along which the column can slide.
  • One or more axial ribs 106 and axial grooves 110 can be disposed between the column 30 and the head 22 (or the sleeve 66 or the annular slide 86 ) to resist the head 22 from rotating with respect to the handle 38 or the shank 26 or the column 30 .
  • the axial rib 106 can be slidable in the axial groove 110 .
  • the axial rib 106 can extend from the column 30 , and the axial groove 110 can extend into the annular slide 86 , as shown.
  • the axial rib can extend from the annular slide and the annular groove can extend into the column.
  • the flantern 10 has multiple reflectors, some movable with respect to one another, to direct, focus and/or disperse light from the light 40 .
  • the reflectors can be specular reflectors, with mirror or mirror-like surfaces, to substantially specularly reflect all the light incident on the reflectors.
  • a proximal convex reflector 114 is disposed on the distal end of the column 30 , and adjacent the light 40 .
  • the proximal convex reflector 114 can be thin/short and squat, with a flatter center and a fillet or curved edge.
  • a dimple 118 ( FIG. 7 b ) is formed in the proximal convex reflector 114 , and aligned with the light 40 .
  • the light 40 can be disposed in the dimple 118 , and the dimple 118 and the proximal convex reflector 114 can circumscribe the light 40 .
  • a distal convex reflector 122 is carried by the sleeve 66 or the head 22 , and opposes the proximal convex reflector 114 of the column 30 .
  • the distal convex reflector 122 has an aperture 126 ( FIGS. 6 and 7 b ) therein aligned with the light 40 .
  • the proximal and distal convex reflectors 114 and 122 move towards and away from one another as the head 22 and the sleeve 66 slides on the column 30 .
  • the proximal and distal convex reflectors 114 and 122 can be adjacent, or even abutting, to one another in the retracted position of the head, and the flashlight configuration of the flantern.
  • the proximal and distal convex reflectors 114 and 122 can be spaced-apart from one another and separated by a gap in the extended position of the head, and the lantern configuration of the flantern.
  • a distal concave reflector 130 is carried by the sleeve 66 and the head 22 .
  • the distal concave reflector 130 can be disposed adjacent to, and can face, the flashlight lens 82 .
  • the distal concave reflector 130 can be disposed substantially between the flashlight lens 82 and the distal convex reflector 122 .
  • the distal concave reflector 130 has an aperture 134 ( FIGS. 6 and 7 b ) therein aligned with the aperture of the distal convex reflector 122 of the sleeve 66 , and the light 40 .
  • the light 40 can be received at, adjacent and/or in, the aperture 134 of the distal concave reflector 130 in the retracted position of the head 22 , and the flashlight configuration of the flantern.
  • a conical projection 138 ( FIGS. 6 and 76 ) can extend from the distal convex reflector 130 .
  • the conical projection 138 can extend through the aperture of distal convex reflector 122 .
  • the distal concave reflector 130 can extend through the distal concave reflector 122 .
  • the conical projection 138 can form a part of the distal convex reflector 122 .
  • the conical projection 138 can be received in the dimple 118 , with the light 40 adjacent the aperture when the head 22 is slid towards the handle 38 in the retracted position.
  • one or all of the reflectors 114 , 122 and 130 can be opaque such that light from the light 30 does not pass through the reflectors.
  • one or all of the reflectors 114 , 122 and 130 can be specular reflectors, such that all light incident thereon is reflected therefrom.
  • at least the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can be opaque, and configured to resist light from the light 40 from passing laterally therethrough.
  • the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can circumscribe and/or radially surround the light 40 in the retracted position.
  • the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can resist light from the light 40 from passing laterally through the lantern lens 74 in the retracted position of the head 22 and the flashlight configuration of the flantern.
  • the user can direct light with the flashlight without interference from lateral or radial light being scattered back towards the user's eyes.
  • Each of the distal reflectors 122 and 130 can have outer flanges that can be retained between the sleeve 66 , or distal end of the wall 70 , and the ring.
  • the head 22 slides between at least two position, namely the retracted and extended positions, which correspond to and define at least two configurations of the flantern 10 , namely flashlight and lantern configurations, respectively.
  • the retracted position and the flashlight configuration, shown in FIGS.
  • the sleeve 66 and the head 22 are displaced towards the shank 26 and the handle 38 ; the distal convex reflector 122 of the sleeve 66 is adjacent the proximal convex reflector 144 of the column 30 , and the light 40 is received adjacent the aperture 134 of the distal concave reflector 130 , to disperse light reflected off of the distal concave reflector 130 of the sleeve 66 and out of the flashlight lens 82 .
  • the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can resist light from the light 40 from passing laterally therethrough, or laterally out of the lateral lantern lens 74 .
  • the sleeve 66 and the head 22 are displaced away from the shank 26 and the handle 38 ; the distal and proximal convex reflectors 114 and 122 are separated from one another by a gap, to disperse light from the light 40 off of the distal and proximal convex reflectors 114 and 122 , and out of the lateral lantern lens 74 .
  • a small amount of light may pass through the aperture 134 , and out of the flashlight lens 82 , in the lantern configuration.
  • the column 30 is separate from the handle 38 or the shank 26 , and the head 22 slides on the column 30 , while a length of the handle 38 remains exposed with respect to the head 22 in both the extended and retracted positions.
  • a user is able to grasp the handle 38 with one hand, and the head 22 with the other hand, and manipulate or slide the head 22 between the extended and retracted positions, and the lantern and flashlight configurations.
  • the light 40 can be powered by a MAFC 14 , which can be electrically coupled to the light, and which can be removably disposed in the hollow 42 of the handle 38 and the shank 26 .
  • the MAFC 14 can be or can comprise a metal-air cell type battery, with a metal anode, an air or oxygen cathode, and/or an electrolyte.
  • the metal anode can be magnesium.
  • Suitable cathodes will be known to those in the art, and can include a cathode comprising a porous sheet, such as a porous carbon sheet allowing air or oxygen from or through the cathode.
  • the MAFC 14 can have a housing 142 with multiple holes 146 to allow water or an electrolyte solution to enter the housing 142 , and thus the MAFC.
  • the housing 142 can be a plastic cylinder with a top and a bottom, and a perimeter cylindrical wall that has multiple holes 146 therein.
  • the active components of the MAFC can be disposed in the housing 142 .
  • the shank 26 and the handle 38 can have one or more apertures therethrough to expose the MAFC to ambient air/oxygen and/or vent reaction by-product gases of the MAFC when activated.
  • one or more first apertures 150 can be disposed at one end of the handle 38 or shank 26 , and one or more second apertures 154 at an opposite end of the handle 38 or shank 26 .
  • the apertures 150 and 154 can be formed in a lateral side of the handle 38 or the shank 26 .
  • a cylindrical gap can be formed between an outer surface of a wall of the housing 142 and an inner surface of a wall of the shank 26 and the handle 38 to allow air/oxygen to circulate around the housing and the multiple holes 146 thereof.
  • the MAFC can comprise salt impregnated therein.
  • the salt can be disposed in the housing 142 , and can form an electrolyte solution when water is added into the housing or MAFC.
  • salt can be disposed in the housing 42 to form an electrolyte when the MAFC is exposed to water.
  • water can be added or poured into the MAFC, or the MAFC can be dipped or immersed into water.
  • the salt can be disposed on surfaces of the inside of the housing, the anode, and/or the cathode.
  • the salt can impregnate a fibrous material in the housing.
  • the MAFC 14 can be self-contained, and can only require the addition of water.
  • a method for activating and using the flantern 10 as described above comprises withdrawing the MAFC 14 from the shank 26 or the handle 38 ; activating the MAFC by exposing the MAFC to water or an electrolyte; and reinserting the MAFC 14 into the shank 26 or the handle 38 .
  • the MAFC 14 can have slat impregnated therein, and can be exposed to water by substantially immersing the MAFC in water.
  • the MAFC 14 can be exposed to an electrolyte, such as salt water.
  • salt can be added to water to form the electrolyte, and the MAFC can be substantially immersed in the electrolyte.
  • the method can also comprise removing the base 50 from the shank 26 or the handle 38 before withdrawing the MAFC; and replacing the base 50 on the shank 26 or the handle 38 after reinserting the MAFC.
  • the method for activating and using the flantern 10 as described above comprises activating the MAFC 14 by exposing the flantern 10 itself to water or an electrolyte.
  • the handle 38 or the shank 26 can be substantially immersed in water or an electrolyte with the water or electrolyte entering the hollow 42 and the MAFC 14 through the first and/or second apertures 150 and/or 154 in the shank 26 or the handle 38 .
  • the MAFC can be configured to receive the addition of an electrolyte, such as salt water or salt.
  • an electrolyte such as salt water or salt.
  • salt can be added to water to form the electrolyte, and the MAFC can be substantially immersed in the electrolyte.
  • FIG. 15 another cap 50 b is shown that is similar in most respects to that described above.
  • the cap 50 b includes a compartment 158 carried by the cap, and carrying spare salt 162 for the MAFC 14 .
  • the spare salt can be added to the MAFC along with water.
  • the container can be opened and the salt added to a container of water into which the MAFC is immersed.
  • the MAFC 14 can be carried by and removably coupled to the cap 50 to facilitate handling.
  • the cap 50 can be removed from the shank 26 and the handle 38 , carrying with it the MAFC, which can then be dipped or immersed in water while the user holds the cap.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Arrangement Of Elements, Cooling, Sealing, Or The Like Of Lighting Devices (AREA)

Abstract

A combined flashlight and lantern can have a light powered by a metal-air fuel cell that runs, or is activated, by water or an electrolyte such as salt water. The combined flashlight and lantern has both flashlight and lantern configurations. In the flashlight configuration, a head with a distal concave reflector is disposed towards a handle with the light in an aperture of the distal concave reflector to direct light axially. The distal concave reflector is opaque to resist light from emitting laterally therefrom. In the lantern configuration, the head with a distal convex reflector is disposed away from the handle and opposing a proximal convex reflector to direct light radially.

Description

    PRIORITY CLAIM(S)
  • Priority is claimed to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/432,368, filed Dec. 9, 2016, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
  • BACKGROUND Field of the Invention
  • The present invention relates generally to a combined flashlight and lantern that can be powered by a metal-air fuel cell (MAFC) that is activated by water or an electrolyte solution, such as salt water.
  • Related Art
  • Flashlights usually require batteries that can expire or lose power during storage. In addition, flashlights can be difficult to use in some situations, like hands-free or tabletop configurations. Lanterns can been designed for hands-free or tabletop use, but cannot project beams of light.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a flashlight with a long storage life and that can be used in emergency situations. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a flashlight that runs on water, e.g. by adding water or an electrolyte solution, such as salt water, to a metal-air fuel cell (MAFC) of the flashlight. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a flashlight that can also function as a lantern.
  • The invention provides a combined flashlight and lantern device comprising a body with a head and a shank. A column extends from the shank. A proximal convex reflector is disposed on a distal end of the column. A light is disposed on the distal end of the column adjacent the proximal convex reflector. A dimple is formed in the proximal convex reflector and aligned with the light. The head is slidable on the column. The head comprises a sleeve having proximal and distal ends, and a lateral wall with at least a portion that is transparent or translucent defining a lateral lantern lens. A proximal opening is at the proximal end of the sleeve and slidable receives the column therein. A flashlight lens is disposed at a distal end of the sleeve opposite the proximal opening. A distal convex reflector is carried by the sleeve, and opposes the proximal convex reflector of the column, and has an aperture therein aligned with the light. The proximal and distal convex reflectors move towards and away from one another as the head slides on the column. A distal concave reflector is carried by the sleeve and has an aperture therein aligned with the aperture of the distal convex reflector of the sleeve. A conical projection extends from the distal convex reflector and has the aperture aligned with the light. The conical projection is receivable in the dimple with the light adjacent the aperture when the head is slid towards the handle.
  • The head slides between at least two positions, comprising: a retracted position, defining a flashlight configuration; and an extended position, defining a lantern configuration. In the retracted position, and the flashlight configuration, the sleeve is displaced towards the shank, the distal convex reflector of the sleeve is adjacent the proximal convex reflector of the column, and the light is received adjacent the aperture of the distal concave reflector to disperse light reflected off of the distal concave reflector of the sleeve and out of the flashlight lens. In the extended position, and the lantern configuration, the sleeve is displaced away from the shank, the distal and proximal convex reflectors are separated from one another by a gap, and the light is disperse off of the distal and proximal convex reflectors and out of the lateral lantern lens.
  • In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the proximal convex reflector or the conical projection, or both, can be opaque and configured to resist light from the light passing laterally therethrough.
  • In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the shank defines a handle and can be longer than the column, and can be wider than the column. In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the proximal convex reflector and the conical projection can be specular reflectors.
  • In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the handle can have a hollow and an open end. A metal-air fuel cell can be electrically coupled to the light, and removably disposed in the hollow of the handle. A first aperture can be formed at one end of the handle and a second aperture can be formed at an opposite end of the handle to expose the fuel cell to ambient air and vent reaction by-product gases of the metal-air fuel cell when activated.
  • In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, an annular slide can be carried by the sleeve of the head and disposed around and slidable along the column. The annular slide can have an annular channel receiving the proximal opening of the head. An annular seal can extend from an inner surface of the annular slide, and can abut to the column and can slide along the column as the head slides on the column. A pair of annular grooves can be formed in the column and spaced-apart from one another. The pair of annular grooves can removably receive the annular seal therein. The pair of annular grooves can comprise a proximal groove corresponding to the retracted position of the head with respect to the handle, and a distal groove corresponding to the extended position of the head with respect to the handle. The annular seal defines a detent biasing the head in the retracted and extended positions.
  • In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, an axial rib can be slidable in an axial groove disposed between the column and the head to resist the head and the shank rotating with respect to one another.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example, features of the invention; and, wherein:
  • FIG. 1a is a side view of a combined flashlight and lantern in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, shown in a flashlight configuration and with a head in a retracted position;
  • FIG. 1b is a side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown in a lantern configuration and with the head in an extended position;
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of a shank of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown with the head removed;
  • FIG. 3 is a side view of the head of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown removed from the shank;
  • FIG. 4a is a cross-sectional side view of combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown in the flashlight configuration and with the head in the retracted position;
  • FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown in the lantern configuration and with the head in the extended position;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a shank of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown with the head removed;
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side view of the head of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown removed from the shank;
  • FIG. 7a is a partial detailed cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown the flashlight configuration and with the head in the retracted position;
  • FIG. 7b is a partial detailed cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown the lantern configuration and with the head in the extended position;
  • FIG. 7c is a partial detailed cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown transitioning between the flashlight and lantern configuration;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown with a cap and a metal-air fuel cell housing removed from the shank;
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the cap of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the metal-air fuel cell housing of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1, shown with the metal-air fuel cell removed;
  • FIG. 12 is a side view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 13 is a top view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the combined flashlight and lantern of FIG. 1; and
  • FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of another cap for another combined flashlight and lantern in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated, and specific language will be used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT(S) Definitions
  • The term “lens” is used herein broadly to refer to a window through which light is passed. The lens may or may not have optical power and may or may not have curved surfaces. The lens can be transparent or translucent.
  • Description
  • As illustrated in FIGS. 1-14, a combined flashlight and lantern, indicated generally at 10, in an example implementation in accordance with the invention is shown. The combined flashlight and lantern can be called a “flantern.” In one aspect, the flantern can be configured to “run” (not powered) on water, or an electrolyte solution, such as salt water. The flantern can be configured to utilize a metal-air fuel cell (MAFC) 14 (FIGS. 8 and 10) as a power source. The MAFC 14 can be activated by adding water to the MAFC, e.g. by substantially immersing the MAFC in water. The MAFC 14 is configured to provide power to the flantern 10, and light thereof, when water is introduced into the MAFC. In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can be reusable, and can be re-immersed in water and re-activated multiple times. In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can be configured to provide 100 continuous hours of power to the light (so that the light provides 100 hours of continuous light), and can be re-immersed and re-activated at least three times, each for an addition 100 continuous hours of use. In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can be disposable and replaceable (or replaced by another MAFC). In another aspect, the MAFC 14 can be self-contained, and only require the addition of water, when the MAFC comprises salt impregnated therein. In another aspect, the MAFC 14 can be configured to require the addition of an electrolyte solution such as salt water and/or the further addition of salt to the MAFC.
  • In another aspect, the flantern 10 can be configured as a flashlight, as shown in FIGS. 1a, 4a and 7a , and a lantern, as shown in FIGS. 1b, 4b and 7b . In the flashlight configuration, the flantern 10 can direct a more concentrated and/or narrower beam of light axially with respect to the flantern. In addition, the flantern 10 can be held in a user's hand in the flashlight configuration. In the lantern configuration, the flantern 10 can direct light radially with respect to the flantern. In one aspect, the flantern 10 can direct light in a 360 degree circle radially to a longitudinal axis of the flantern, in the lantern configuration. It is understood that the light emanating radially from the flantern can also do so at an incline (acute and/or obtuse) with respect to the longitudinal axis. In addition, the flantern 10 can be disposed on a tabletop or the like, or suspended, in the lantern configuration.
  • The flantern 10 comprises a body 18 with a head 22 and a shank 26. The head 22 can be movable or slidable with respect to the shank 26, as described below. The shank 26 can have a column 30 extending from the shank. The body 18 and the shank 26 can have a longitudinal axis 34. The shank 26 can define a handle 38 that is sized and shaped to be grasped in a user's hand. The shank 26 can be longer than the column 30, and the shank can wider than the column 30. Thus, the column 30 can be shorter and narrower than the handle 38. The head 22 can slide on the column 30. A light 40 or light element or light source, such as an LED, is disposed on a distal end of the column 30, as best shown in FIG. 7b . The light 40 is electrically coupled to the MAFC 14. In addition, the body and/or the handle or the shank can have a button electrically connected between the light and the MAFC to selectively activate the light.
  • The shank 26 can be a cylinder, and can be formed by plastic with an over mold. In addition, the shank 26 can have a hollow 42 and an open end 46, as shown in FIG. 8. A cap 50 removably closes the open end 46 of the shank 26. In addition, the cap 50 can have a flat outer end forming a base upon which the flantern 10 can stand. Furthermore, the cap 50 can have a hook cavity 54 with a hook 58 pivotally disposed therein, as shown in FIG. 14, and from which the flantern 10 can be hung or suspended. In one aspect, the head 22 and the cap 50 or base can be enlarged with a greater diameter than the shank 26 or the handle 38. The MAFC 14 is removably disposed in the hollow 42 of the shank 26. The cap 50 is removably coupled to the shank 26 to expose the hollow 42 therein and allow removal and insertion of the MAFC 14. The shank 26 and/or the hollow 42 can have a sealed or closed end 62, opposite the open end 46. The sealed or closed end 62 of the hollow 42 or the shank 26 can comprise a wall and can separate the hollow 42, and the MAFC 14 and water therein, from the light 40 and other electronics or electrical connections, such as the button. Thus, the light, electronics and button are protected from the water, salt and/or electrolyte solution of the MAFC.
  • As stated above, the head 22 is slidable on the column 30. The head 22 can comprise a sleeve 66 or shroud with proximal and distal ends. The head 22 and/or sleeve 66 has a lateral wall 70 between the proximal and distal ends. In one aspect, the lateral wall 70 has at least a portion that is transparent or translucent, defining a lateral lantern lens 74. In another aspect, the entire lateral wall 70 can be transparent or translucent. In one aspect, the sleeve 66 and/or wall 70 can have a convex profile. The convex profile can be enlarged or can have a greater diameter than the handle 38, and can help a user maintain a grip on the handle or flantern. In addition, the head 22 and the sleeve 66 can have a proximal opening 78 (FIG. 6) at the proximal end of the sleeve that slidable receives the column 30 therein. A flashlight lens 82 is disposed at the distal end of the sleeve 66 and the head 22, opposite the proximal opening 78. In one aspect, the flashlight lens 82 can face axially and can span or cover a distal opening in the sleeve 66. A ring can retain the flashlight lens on the distal opening of the sleeve 66.
  • An annular slide 86 can be disposed on the proximal end of the sleeve 66, and can be disposed around and slidable along the column 30. The annular slide 86 can have an annular channel 90 receiving the proximal opening 78, and/or end of the lateral wall 70, of the sleeve 66 and the head 22. An annular seal 94 extends from an inner surface of the annular slide 86, and abuts to the column 30, and slides along the column as the head 22 slides on the column. A pair of annular grooves, namely a proximal groove 98 and a distal groove 102, are formed in the column 30, and are spaced-apart from one another. The annular grooves 98 and 102 removably receive the annular seal 94 therein. The proximal groove 98 corresponds to the retracted position of the head 22 with respect to the shank 26 and the handle 38. The distal groove 102 corresponds to the extended position of the head 22 with respect to the shank 26 and the handle 38. The annular seal 94 can define a detent biasing the head 22 in the retracted and extended positions. The annular seal 94 can be formed of a softer, pliable, and resilient material. In addition, the inner surface of the annular seal 94 can form a slide or bearing surface along which the column can slide.
  • One or more axial ribs 106 and axial grooves 110 can be disposed between the column 30 and the head 22 (or the sleeve 66 or the annular slide 86) to resist the head 22 from rotating with respect to the handle 38 or the shank 26 or the column 30. The axial rib 106 can be slidable in the axial groove 110. In one aspect, the axial rib 106 can extend from the column 30, and the axial groove 110 can extend into the annular slide 86, as shown. In another aspect, the axial rib can extend from the annular slide and the annular groove can extend into the column.
  • The flantern 10 has multiple reflectors, some movable with respect to one another, to direct, focus and/or disperse light from the light 40. The reflectors can be specular reflectors, with mirror or mirror-like surfaces, to substantially specularly reflect all the light incident on the reflectors. A proximal convex reflector 114 is disposed on the distal end of the column 30, and adjacent the light 40. The proximal convex reflector 114 can be thin/short and squat, with a flatter center and a fillet or curved edge. A dimple 118 (FIG. 7b ) is formed in the proximal convex reflector 114, and aligned with the light 40. The light 40 can be disposed in the dimple 118, and the dimple 118 and the proximal convex reflector 114 can circumscribe the light 40. A distal convex reflector 122 is carried by the sleeve 66 or the head 22, and opposes the proximal convex reflector 114 of the column 30. The distal convex reflector 122 has an aperture 126 (FIGS. 6 and 7 b) therein aligned with the light 40. The proximal and distal convex reflectors 114 and 122 move towards and away from one another as the head 22 and the sleeve 66 slides on the column 30. The proximal and distal convex reflectors 114 and 122 can be adjacent, or even abutting, to one another in the retracted position of the head, and the flashlight configuration of the flantern. The proximal and distal convex reflectors 114 and 122 can be spaced-apart from one another and separated by a gap in the extended position of the head, and the lantern configuration of the flantern.
  • A distal concave reflector 130 is carried by the sleeve 66 and the head 22. The distal concave reflector 130 can be disposed adjacent to, and can face, the flashlight lens 82. In addition, the distal concave reflector 130 can be disposed substantially between the flashlight lens 82 and the distal convex reflector 122. The distal concave reflector 130 has an aperture 134 (FIGS. 6 and 7 b) therein aligned with the aperture of the distal convex reflector 122 of the sleeve 66, and the light 40. In one aspect, the light 40 can be received at, adjacent and/or in, the aperture 134 of the distal concave reflector 130 in the retracted position of the head 22, and the flashlight configuration of the flantern. A conical projection 138 (FIGS. 6 and 76) can extend from the distal convex reflector 130. The conical projection 138 can extend through the aperture of distal convex reflector 122. Thus, the distal concave reflector 130 can extend through the distal concave reflector 122. In one aspect, the conical projection 138 can form a part of the distal convex reflector 122. The conical projection 138 can be received in the dimple 118, with the light 40 adjacent the aperture when the head 22 is slid towards the handle 38 in the retracted position.
  • In one of the aspect, one or all of the reflectors 114, 122 and 130 can be opaque such that light from the light 30 does not pass through the reflectors. In another aspect, one or all of the reflectors 114, 122 and 130 can be specular reflectors, such that all light incident thereon is reflected therefrom. For example, at least the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can be opaque, and configured to resist light from the light 40 from passing laterally therethrough. The proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can circumscribe and/or radially surround the light 40 in the retracted position. Thus, the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can resist light from the light 40 from passing laterally through the lantern lens 74 in the retracted position of the head 22 and the flashlight configuration of the flantern. Thus, the user can direct light with the flashlight without interference from lateral or radial light being scattered back towards the user's eyes. Each of the distal reflectors 122 and 130 can have outer flanges that can be retained between the sleeve 66, or distal end of the wall 70, and the ring.
  • As described above, the head 22 slides between at least two position, namely the retracted and extended positions, which correspond to and define at least two configurations of the flantern 10, namely flashlight and lantern configurations, respectively. In the retracted position, and the flashlight configuration, shown in FIGS. 1a, 4a and 7a , the sleeve 66 and the head 22 are displaced towards the shank 26 and the handle 38; the distal convex reflector 122 of the sleeve 66 is adjacent the proximal convex reflector 144 of the column 30, and the light 40 is received adjacent the aperture 134 of the distal concave reflector 130, to disperse light reflected off of the distal concave reflector 130 of the sleeve 66 and out of the flashlight lens 82. As described above, the proximal convex reflector 144 and/or the conical projection 130 can resist light from the light 40 from passing laterally therethrough, or laterally out of the lateral lantern lens 74.
  • In the extended position, and the lantern configuration, shown in FIGS. 1b, 4b and 7b , the sleeve 66 and the head 22 are displaced away from the shank 26 and the handle 38; the distal and proximal convex reflectors 114 and 122 are separated from one another by a gap, to disperse light from the light 40 off of the distal and proximal convex reflectors 114 and 122, and out of the lateral lantern lens 74. A small amount of light may pass through the aperture 134, and out of the flashlight lens 82, in the lantern configuration. But a majority of the light will emit from the light 40, with some reflecting off of the distal convex reflector 122 and out of the lateral lantern lens 73, and some reflecting off of the distal convex reflector 122, back to the proximal convex reflector 144, and out of the lateral lantern lens 74.
  • In addition, the column 30 is separate from the handle 38 or the shank 26, and the head 22 slides on the column 30, while a length of the handle 38 remains exposed with respect to the head 22 in both the extended and retracted positions. Thus, a user is able to grasp the handle 38 with one hand, and the head 22 with the other hand, and manipulate or slide the head 22 between the extended and retracted positions, and the lantern and flashlight configurations.
  • As described above, the light 40 can be powered by a MAFC 14, which can be electrically coupled to the light, and which can be removably disposed in the hollow 42 of the handle 38 and the shank 26. Referring to FIG. 10, the MAFC 14 can be or can comprise a metal-air cell type battery, with a metal anode, an air or oxygen cathode, and/or an electrolyte. The metal anode can be magnesium. Suitable cathodes will be known to those in the art, and can include a cathode comprising a porous sheet, such as a porous carbon sheet allowing air or oxygen from or through the cathode. The MAFC 14 can have a housing 142 with multiple holes 146 to allow water or an electrolyte solution to enter the housing 142, and thus the MAFC. The housing 142 can be a plastic cylinder with a top and a bottom, and a perimeter cylindrical wall that has multiple holes 146 therein. The active components of the MAFC can be disposed in the housing 142. Referring again to FIGS. 1-12, the shank 26 and the handle 38 can have one or more apertures therethrough to expose the MAFC to ambient air/oxygen and/or vent reaction by-product gases of the MAFC when activated. In one aspect, one or more first apertures 150 can be disposed at one end of the handle 38 or shank 26, and one or more second apertures 154 at an opposite end of the handle 38 or shank 26. In addition, the apertures 150 and 154 can be formed in a lateral side of the handle 38 or the shank 26. Thus, MAFC 14 can remain exposed to ambient air despite an orientation of the flantern and/or how it is being held. A cylindrical gap can be formed between an outer surface of a wall of the housing 142 and an inner surface of a wall of the shank 26 and the handle 38 to allow air/oxygen to circulate around the housing and the multiple holes 146 thereof.
  • In one aspect, the MAFC can comprise salt impregnated therein. The salt can be disposed in the housing 142, and can form an electrolyte solution when water is added into the housing or MAFC. Thus, salt can be disposed in the housing 42 to form an electrolyte when the MAFC is exposed to water. For example, water can be added or poured into the MAFC, or the MAFC can be dipped or immersed into water. In one aspect, the salt can be disposed on surfaces of the inside of the housing, the anode, and/or the cathode. In addition, the salt can impregnate a fibrous material in the housing. Thus, the MAFC 14 can be self-contained, and can only require the addition of water.
  • In one aspect, a method for activating and using the flantern 10 as described above comprises withdrawing the MAFC 14 from the shank 26 or the handle 38; activating the MAFC by exposing the MAFC to water or an electrolyte; and reinserting the MAFC 14 into the shank 26 or the handle 38. In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can have slat impregnated therein, and can be exposed to water by substantially immersing the MAFC in water. In another aspect, the MAFC 14 can be exposed to an electrolyte, such as salt water. For example, salt can be added to water to form the electrolyte, and the MAFC can be substantially immersed in the electrolyte. The method can also comprise removing the base 50 from the shank 26 or the handle 38 before withdrawing the MAFC; and replacing the base 50 on the shank 26 or the handle 38 after reinserting the MAFC.
  • In another aspect, the method for activating and using the flantern 10 as described above comprises activating the MAFC 14 by exposing the flantern 10 itself to water or an electrolyte. For example, the handle 38 or the shank 26 can be substantially immersed in water or an electrolyte with the water or electrolyte entering the hollow 42 and the MAFC 14 through the first and/or second apertures 150 and/or 154 in the shank 26 or the handle 38.
  • In another aspect, the MAFC can be configured to receive the addition of an electrolyte, such as salt water or salt. As described above, salt can be added to water to form the electrolyte, and the MAFC can be substantially immersed in the electrolyte. Referring to FIG. 15, another cap 50 b is shown that is similar in most respects to that described above. The cap 50 b includes a compartment 158 carried by the cap, and carrying spare salt 162 for the MAFC 14. The spare salt can be added to the MAFC along with water. In one aspect, the container can be opened and the salt added to a container of water into which the MAFC is immersed.
  • In one aspect, the MAFC 14 can be carried by and removably coupled to the cap 50 to facilitate handling. The cap 50 can be removed from the shank 26 and the handle 38, carrying with it the MAFC, which can then be dipped or immersed in water while the user holds the cap.
  • While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the claims set forth below.

Claims (21)

1-21. (canceled)
22. A flashlight device, comprising:
a) a handle having a lateral side wall, a hollow and an open end;
b) a cap removably closing the open end of the handle;
c) a light carried by the handle;
d) a metal-air fuel cell removably disposed in the hollow of the handle and electrically coupled to the light;
e) the metal-air fuel cell having a housing with a perimeter wall with multiple holes therein; and
f) an aperture formed in a lateral side of the handle configured to expose the metal-air fuel cell to ambient air and vent reaction by-product gases of the metal-air fuel cell when activated.
23. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 22, further comprising:
a cylindrical gap between an outer surface of the housing of the metal-air fuel cell and an inner surface of the handle configured to allow air to circulate around the housing and the multiple holes thereof.
24. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 22, wherein the aperture in the handle further comprises a first aperture at one end of the handle and a second aperture at an opposite end of the handle.
25. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 22, further comprising:
a compartment carried by the cap and carrying spare salt for the metal-air fuel cell.
26. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 22, further comprising:
a) a head slidably with respect to the handle and having a flashlight lens on an end opposite the handle and a lateral portion that is translucent or transparent defining a lantern lens;
b) the light surrounded by the head;
c) a pair of opposing convex reflectors movable toward and away from one another as the head slides with respect to the handle, and comprising a proximal convex reflector carried by the handle and circumscribing the light, and a distal convex reflector carried by the head and movable towards and away from the light as the head slides with respect to the handle;
d) a dimple formed in the proximal convex reflector and aligned with the light;
e) a distal concave reflector carried by the head adjacent the flashlight lens;
f) the distal concave reflector having a conical projection with an aperture aligned with the light, and the conical projection receivable in the dimple with the light adjacent the aperture when the head slides towards the handle; and
g) the proximal convex reflector or the conical projection, or both, being opaque and configured to resist light from the light passing laterally therethrough.
27. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 26, wherein the proximal convex reflector and the conical projection are specular reflectors.
28. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 26, further comprising:
the head being slidable with respect to the handle between at least two positions, comprising:
i) a retracted position, defining a flashlight configuration, in which the conical projection is received within the dimple and the aperture is adjacent the light configured to direct light from the light through the distal concave reflector and out the flashlight lens; and
ii) an extended position, defining a lantern configuration, in which the pair of opposing convex reflectors is spaced-apart from one another by a gap, and configured to reflect light mostly from the pair of opposing convex reflectors and through the lantern lens.
29. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 26, further comprising:
a) a column extending from the handle;
b) the head having a proximal opening receiving the column;
c) an annular slide disposed around and slidable along the column, and having an annular channel receiving the proximal opening of the head;
d) an annular seal extending from an inner surface of the annular slide and abutting to the column and sliding along the column as the head slides on the column;
e) a pair of annular grooves formed in the column and spaced-apart from one another and removably receiving the annular seal therein, the pair of annular grooves comprising a proximal groove corresponding to a retracted position of the head with respect to the handle, and a distal groove corresponding to an extended position of the head with respect to the handle; and
f) the annular seal defining a detent biasing the head in the retracted and extended positions.
30. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 26, further comprising:
a) the handle having a shank defining the handle and a column extending from the shank;
b) the head being slidably disposed on the column;
c) the shank being longer than the column; and
d) the shank being wider than the column.
31. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 26, further comprising:
a) the handle having a shank defining the handle and a column extending from the shank;
b) the head being slidably disposed on the column; and
c) an axial rib slidable in an axial groove disposed between the column and the head to resist the head and the shank from rotating with respect to one another.
32. The flashlight device in accordance with claim 26, wherein the head further comprises a sleeve with a convex profile that is transparent or translucent and forms the lateral lens.
33. A combined flashlight and lantern device, comprising:
a) a handle having a lateral side wall, a hollow and an open end;
b) a cap removably closing the open end of the handle;
c) a head slidably with respect to the handle and having a flashlight lens on an end opposite the handle and a lateral portion that is translucent or transparent defining a lantern lens;
d) a distal concave reflector carried by the head adjacent the flashlight lens;
e) a light carried by the handle and surrounded by the head;
f) the head being slidable with respect to the handle between at least two positions, comprising:
i) a retracted position, defining a flashlight configuration configured to direct light from the light through the distal concave reflector and out the flashlight lens; and
ii) an extended position, defining a lantern configuration configured to reflect light mostly through the lantern lens;
g) a metal-air fuel cell removably disposed in the hollow of the handle and electrically coupled to the light;
h) the metal-air fuel cell having a housing with a perimeter wall with multiple holes therein;
i) an aperture formed in a lateral side of the handle configured to expose the metal-air fuel cell to ambient air and vent reaction by-product gases of the metal-air fuel cell when activated; and
j) a cylindrical gap between an outer surface of the housing of the metal-air fuel cell and an inner surface of the handle configured to allow air to circulate around the housing and the multiple holes thereof.
34. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 33, wherein the aperture in the handle further comprises a first aperture at one end of the handle and a second aperture at an opposite end of the handle.
35. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 33, further comprising:
a) a pair of opposing convex reflectors movable toward and away from one another as the head slides with respect to the handle, and comprising a proximal convex reflector carried by the handle and circumscribing the light, and a distal convex reflector carried by the head and movable towards and away from the light as the head slides with respect to the handle;
b) a dimple formed in the proximal convex reflector and aligned with the light;
c) the distal concave reflector having a conical projection with an aperture aligned with the light, and the conical projection receivable in the dimple with the light adjacent the aperture when the head slides towards the handle; and
d) the proximal convex reflector or the conical projection, or both, being opaque and configured to resist light from the light passing laterally therethrough.
36. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 35, further comprising:
a) the conical projection is received within the dimple and the aperture is adjacent the light configured to direct light from the light through the distal concave reflector and out the flashlight lens in the retracted position; and
b) the pair of opposing convex reflectors is spaced-apart from one another by a gap, and configured to reflect light mostly from the pair of opposing convex reflectors and through the lantern lens in the extended position.
37. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 35, further comprising:
a) a column extending from the handle;
b) the head having a proximal opening receiving the column;
c) an annular slide disposed around and slidable along the column, and having an annular channel receiving the proximal opening of the head;
d) an annular seal extending from an inner surface of the annular slide and abutting to the column and sliding along the column as the head slides on the column;
e) a pair of annular grooves formed in the column and spaced-apart from one another and removably receiving the annular seal therein, the pair of annular grooves comprising a proximal groove corresponding to a retracted position of the head with respect to the handle, and a distal groove corresponding to an extended position of the head with respect to the handle; and
f) the annular seal defining a detent biasing the head in the retracted and extended positions.
38. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 35, further comprising:
a) the handle having a shank defining the handle and a column extending from the shank;
b) the head being slidably disposed on the column;
c) the shank being longer than the column; and
d) the shank being wider than the column.
39. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 35, further comprising:
a) the handle having a shank defining the handle and a column extending from the shank;
b) the head being slidably disposed on the column; and
c) an axial rib slidable in an axial groove disposed between the column and the head to resist the head and the shank from rotating with respect to one another.
40. The flashlight and lantern device in accordance with claim 35, wherein the head further comprises a sleeve with a convex profile that is transparent or translucent and forms the lateral lens.
41. A combined flashlight and lantern device, comprising:
a) a body with a head and a shank;
b) a column extending from the shank;
c) the shank defining a handle and being longer than the column, and the shank being wider than the column;
d) a proximal convex reflector disposed on a distal end of the column;
e) a light disposed on the distal end of the column adjacent the proximal convex reflector;
f) the head slidable on the column, the head comprising:
i) a sleeve having proximal and distal ends, and a lateral wall with at least a portion that is transparent or translucent defining a lateral lantern lens;
ii) a proximal opening at the proximal end of the sleeve slidable receiving the column therein;
iii) a flashlight lens disposed at a distal end of the sleeve opposite the proximal opening;
iv) a distal convex reflector carried by the sleeve, and opposing the proximal convex reflector of the column, and having an aperture therein aligned with the light; and
v) a distal concave reflector carried by the sleeve and having an aperture therein aligned with the aperture of the distal convex reflector of the sleeve;
g) the head sliding between at least two positions, comprising:
i) a retracted position, defining a flashlight configuration, in which the sleeve is displaced towards the shank, the distal convex reflector of the sleeve is adjacent the proximal convex reflector of the column, and the light is received adjacent the aperture of the distal concave reflector and configured to disperse light reflected off of the distal concave reflector of the sleeve and out of the flashlight lens; and
ii) an extended position, defining a lantern configuration, in which the sleeve is displaced away from the shank, the distal and proximal convex reflectors are separated from one another by a gap, and the light is configured to disperse light off of the distal and proximal convex reflectors and out of the lateral lantern lens;
h) the handle having a lateral side wall, a hollow and an open end;
i) a cap removably closing the open end of the handle;
j) a metal-air fuel cell removably disposed in the hollow of the handle and electrically coupled to the light;
k) the metal-air fuel cell having a housing with a perimeter wall with multiple holes therein; and
l) an aperture formed in a lateral side of the handle configured to expose the metal-air fuel cell to ambient air and vent reaction by-product gases of the metal-air fuel cell when activated.
US15/467,408 2016-12-09 2017-03-23 Combined Flashlight and Lantern Abandoned US20180163935A1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/467,408 US20180163935A1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-03-23 Combined Flashlight and Lantern
US15/720,645 US9927077B1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-09-29 Combined flashlight and lantern
CN201721445605.7U CN207527337U (en) 2016-12-09 2017-11-02 Flashlight systems

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201662432368P 2016-12-09 2016-12-09
US15/467,408 US20180163935A1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-03-23 Combined Flashlight and Lantern

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/720,645 Continuation US9927077B1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-09-29 Combined flashlight and lantern

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20180163935A1 true US20180163935A1 (en) 2018-06-14

Family

ID=61633133

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/467,408 Abandoned US20180163935A1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-03-23 Combined Flashlight and Lantern
US15/720,645 Expired - Fee Related US9927077B1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-09-29 Combined flashlight and lantern

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/720,645 Expired - Fee Related US9927077B1 (en) 2016-12-09 2017-09-29 Combined flashlight and lantern

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (2) US20180163935A1 (en)
CN (1) CN207527337U (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109539082A (en) * 2018-11-27 2019-03-29 刘俣璐 A kind of multi-purpose portable desk lamp
WO2020025116A1 (en) * 2018-07-31 2020-02-06 Brandbase B.V. Salt-water fuel cell
US10690300B2 (en) * 2017-07-06 2020-06-23 Schumacher Electric Corporation Multi-functional flexible LED flashlight
US11125418B2 (en) 2019-11-22 2021-09-21 Shawshank Ledz Inc. Modular device with interchangeable torch lantern functionalities

Families Citing this family (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD923836S1 (en) 2017-08-23 2021-06-29 Promier Products Inc. Portable, elongated lantern
WO2019040734A1 (en) 2017-08-23 2019-02-28 Promier Products, Inc. Portable lantern light with multiple operating modes
GR1009746B (en) * 2018-07-16 2020-05-29 Γεωργιος Στυλιανου Βιλανακης Self-acting directly-actuated security lamp kit
US11988344B2 (en) 2018-10-08 2024-05-21 Promier Products Inc. Multi-purpose flashlight
USD936877S1 (en) * 2018-11-23 2021-11-23 Ningbo Futai Electric Limited Flashlight
US10995940B2 (en) * 2019-05-06 2021-05-04 LB Marketing, Inc. Detachable dual-mode lighting device and associated headlamp system
WO2021080414A1 (en) * 2019-10-25 2021-04-29 Bioactivos Y Nutracéuticos De México S.A. De C.V. Flashlight that operates using energy extracted from an electrolyte-containing solution
CN213177767U (en) * 2020-07-02 2021-05-11 唐伟 Mosquito eradication camping lamp
US11402079B1 (en) * 2020-10-29 2022-08-02 Chien Luen Industries Co., Ltd., Inc. Landscape lamps with adjustable light modifiers
US11835224B2 (en) * 2021-03-18 2023-12-05 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Electronic device and controlling method of the same
USD995853S1 (en) * 2021-11-25 2023-08-15 Xiaoping Liu Flashlight

Family Cites Families (39)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1248688A (en) * 1917-05-16 1917-12-04 Engelbert Ludescher Portable electric lamp.
US1904248A (en) * 1929-11-25 1933-04-18 Armspear Mfg Company Lantern
US1969320A (en) 1933-02-04 1934-08-07 Blake Mfg Corp Flash light
US2344221A (en) * 1942-03-19 1944-03-14 K D Lamp Co Lantern
US2441986A (en) * 1946-12-12 1948-05-25 Arthur T Baughn Lamp
US4628420A (en) 1983-09-30 1986-12-09 Beverly Safford Water activated electric cell and survival lamp system
US5001612A (en) * 1989-12-04 1991-03-19 Christopher Odlum Flashlight attachment
USD335192S (en) 1991-12-30 1993-04-27 Abel Carl W Safety flashlight
US5335157A (en) * 1992-01-07 1994-08-02 Whelen Technologies, Inc. Anti-collision light assembly
US5963009A (en) 1998-03-27 1999-10-05 Brotherson; Gaylen M. Salt water power source and lantern
USD445521S1 (en) 2000-05-16 2001-07-24 The Coleman Company, Inc. Portable lighting device
USD483136S1 (en) 2002-07-11 2003-12-02 Flying Dragon Development Ltd. Extendable lamp
CN2572207Y (en) * 2002-09-23 2003-09-10 飞龙发展有限公司 Hand curred flashlight capable of far distance and 360 deg. range lighting
USD548861S1 (en) 2003-03-25 2007-08-14 Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment Flashlight
US7097323B2 (en) 2003-08-29 2006-08-29 Brian Puckett Flashlight system
WO2005040676A1 (en) 2003-10-27 2005-05-06 Eveready Battery Company, Inc. Convertible flashlight and area light with an aperture shutter
US7241025B2 (en) 2005-01-24 2007-07-10 Surefire, Llc Switch actuated flashlight with current limiter
USD549376S1 (en) 2006-04-27 2007-08-21 Gold Coral International Limited Flashlight
USD553272S1 (en) 2006-08-17 2007-10-16 Masterwise International Limited Combined flashlight and lantern
USD566314S1 (en) 2007-08-17 2008-04-08 Yen Yen Jen Illumination lamp
USD567974S1 (en) 2007-10-24 2008-04-29 Se Kit Yuen Rechargeable LED spotlight with camping light
USD583492S1 (en) 2007-10-31 2008-12-23 Yen Yen Jen Lamp
US20090135606A1 (en) * 2007-11-28 2009-05-28 Caltraco International Limited Multi-reflector mechanism for a led light source
US8529102B2 (en) * 2009-04-06 2013-09-10 Cree, Inc. Reflector system for lighting device
USD620627S1 (en) 2009-12-07 2010-07-27 Alert Safety Lite Products Co., Inc. Work light
US8851702B2 (en) 2012-03-21 2014-10-07 Fermi Chi Hung Lau Collapsible lantern
USD703358S1 (en) 2012-03-23 2014-04-22 Gold Coral International Limited Flashlight
USD747022S1 (en) 2012-10-19 2016-01-05 Create Limited LED portable lantern
USD709231S1 (en) 2013-01-09 2014-07-15 Surefire, Llc Lighting device
USD738021S1 (en) 2013-01-15 2015-09-01 Hansfull Trading Co., Inc. Flashlight
USD713982S1 (en) 2013-01-29 2014-09-23 MerchSource, LLC Lantern
USD726358S1 (en) 2013-05-30 2015-04-07 Caltraco International Limited Flashlight
US8939601B1 (en) * 2013-07-03 2015-01-27 Wen-Sung Lee Collapsible camping lantern
TWD160915S (en) 2013-08-30 2014-06-01 玉晶光電股份有限公司 Flashlight Parts
USD734519S1 (en) 2013-09-24 2015-07-14 Ningbo Taller Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd. LED work light
USD717481S1 (en) 2013-10-30 2014-11-11 MerchSource, LLC LED flashlight
USD767188S1 (en) 2014-07-10 2016-09-20 Surefire Llc. Bumper guard for a portable light
US9500324B2 (en) * 2014-09-02 2016-11-22 Ketra, Inc. Color mixing optics for LED lighting
USD774229S1 (en) 2015-02-11 2016-12-13 Alliance Sports Group, L.P. Flashlight

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10690300B2 (en) * 2017-07-06 2020-06-23 Schumacher Electric Corporation Multi-functional flexible LED flashlight
US11280455B2 (en) 2017-07-06 2022-03-22 Schumacher Electric Corporation Multifunction flexible LED flashlight
US11555583B2 (en) 2017-07-06 2023-01-17 Schumacher Electric Corporation Multifunction flexible LED flashlight
WO2020025116A1 (en) * 2018-07-31 2020-02-06 Brandbase B.V. Salt-water fuel cell
CN109539082A (en) * 2018-11-27 2019-03-29 刘俣璐 A kind of multi-purpose portable desk lamp
US11125418B2 (en) 2019-11-22 2021-09-21 Shawshank Ledz Inc. Modular device with interchangeable torch lantern functionalities

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US9927077B1 (en) 2018-03-27
CN207527337U (en) 2018-06-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9927077B1 (en) Combined flashlight and lantern
US7775686B2 (en) Convertible flashlight and area light with an aperture shutter
US4669186A (en) Twin bladed survival knife
US5913671A (en) Fishing implements with illuminated handle
US4739990A (en) Self-defense/attack device
US6641279B1 (en) Dual-beam light assembly with adjustable posterior head
US4800472A (en) Battery-powered lamp
US8556449B1 (en) Combined flashlight and lantern
US20130042481A1 (en) Hair trimming apparatus with light
KR200420101Y1 (en) Tackle box for fishing
US10161576B2 (en) Flashlight with battery adapter
CN205579251U (en) Chargeable type lithium cell aluminium system flashlight
JP2002289015A (en) Short focus lens condensing light emitting diode lighting device
KR20060131878A (en) Military lantern
CN220870794U (en) Diving lamp
CN212847608U (en) Multipurpose tour guide flag
CN208185946U (en) A kind of otology lighting device
CN211412081U (en) Inserted sheet formula mount that bacterin biological assay used
CN202215952U (en) Special diving LED (light-emitting diode) hand torch
KR200303880Y1 (en) Under water lamp for fishing
AU2004284106B2 (en) Convertible flashlight and area light with an aperture shutter
KR200158230Y1 (en) Multi-function's key holder
JP3096742U (en) Writing implement
AU2016100233A4 (en) knife with built-in light
JP3158601U (en) Illuminated handle device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: HYDRA LIGHT INTERNATIONAL PTY. LTD., AUSTRALIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FOWKES, DOUGLAS;PASAGUI, ARIANNE ROSE NUEVO;SIGNING DATES FROM 20170424 TO 20170505;REEL/FRAME:042322/0747

Owner name: INFOMERCIALS, INC., UTAH

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FOWKES, DOUGLAS;PASAGUI, ARIANNE ROSE NUEVO;SIGNING DATES FROM 20170424 TO 20170505;REEL/FRAME:042322/0747

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION